The 125th Army-Navy Game is set to play today as the Army Black Knights (11-1) face off against the Navy Midshipmen (8-3) at Northwest Stadium in Landover, Maryland, on Saturday, December 14, with a kickoff scheduled for 3 pm Eastern Time. Saturday’s Army-Navy Game will determine who will take home the Commander in Chief’s Trophy and potentially earn a visit to the White House in the spring. It’s currently in the possession of the Black Knights after going 2-0 against Navy and Air Force Academy last season.

• Army: Coming off a strong 11-1 season, the Black Knights won the American Athletic Conference (AAC) championship, showcasing their offensive and defensive capabilities. Their only loss was to #3 ranked Notre Dame. Quarterback Bryson Daily has had an outstanding year, tying for the most rushing touchdowns in the FBS with 29, making Army’s ground game a force to be reckoned with. Their defense has been solid, particularly against the run, which should be crucial in this matchup.
• Navy: The Midshipmen have also had a commendable season, going 8-4, securing bowl eligibility, and looking to continue their recent winning ways. Navy’s offense has been dynamic, though they’ve faced some challenges. Starting QB Blake Horvath has been dealing with a thumb injury and is questionable. Assuming he plays, his passing could be the key to countering Army’s defense. Navy’s rushing attack, while not as strong as Army’s this year, remains a key weapon for them.

• This year, both teams will wear specially designed uniforms to honor significant military units. Army will pay tribute to the 101st Airborne Division, particularly their heroic stand during the Battle of the Bulge in WWII, with uniforms featuring the “Screaming Eagles” helmet design. Navy, on the other hand, will honor VF-61, the Jolly Rogers, with uniforms that reflect the squadron’s history and legacy, including the iconic skull-and-crossbones insignia.
• The game will also feature traditional pre-game ceremonies, including the “March On” of the cadets and midshipmen, the singing of alma maters, and the exchange of prisoners from the service academies’ exchange program. This morning it was announced that President Donald Trump will be attending as well.

• Recent games between these two teams have been closely contested, with the last three games decided by a total of only 13 points. Army is favored by 6.5 points but with an over/under set at 39.5.

The Army-Navy Game is more than just a game. This rivalry honors the camaraderie and strength of the Army and Navy Service Academies. This game not only marks the end of the regular college football season but also serves as a celebration of the service and sacrifice of the men and women who are and have served in our armed forces. This historic rivalry, which has been a staple of college football since 1890, upholds the tradition of sportsmanship and competition between the two service academies.

Photos courtesy of Fox, CBS, AP, ESPN, Yahoo Sports, NBC, and the NCAA. 

“Cowboy Regg” – Co-Host of the “Sons of the Star” Podcast. The podcast is available on Apple, YouTube, and Spotify. 

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